Most chicken keepers overlook Phosphorus, but it's important for strong egg shells

Video Description

Most chicken keepers know that calcium is important for making strong egg shells. But they overlook the importance of Phosphorus. A perfect balance of Calcium AND Phosphorus is needed for strong egg shells - a lack or an excess of either one can cause soft-shelled eggs. • So, don’t force-feed calcium to your chickens by sprinkling it into their feed or dissolving it in their water supply. If you offer shell grit in a separate container, your hens will help themselves to it if and when they need it. • Don’t assume that every thin-shelled egg you see means she needs more calcium. There are lots of other reasons for thin shelled eggs, including not enough phosphorus and even including too MUCH calcium in her diet. • And keep your feed fresh. Don’t store it for months or in poor storage conditions. Old or badly stored feed deteriorates in several ways, including loss of activity of the enzyme phytase that makes plant-based Phosphorus available for chickens' digestion. It requires a complicated biological interaction between calcium and phosphorus to make healthy chickens and strong egg shells. And your hen does it every day. Aren’t chickens amazing! For more fascinating facts, hints and tips about caring for your chickens, and the sheer pleasure of chickens, subscribe to my channel: Chickens in my garden - New Zealand https://www.youtube.com/c/Chickensinmygarden